Washington, D.C.) Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s decision in the case of Shelby County v. Holder, which invalidates Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965:

“I am extremely disappointed by the Supreme Court’s ruling. They have put at risk the right to vote for millions of Americans. For decades, the Voting Rights Act has stood as an essential safeguard against racial discrimination in our political system. Unfortunately, voter suppression and discrimination still exist at the polls, and today’s announcement undermines our nation’s efforts to create an open and transparent electoral process for all.

“The right to vote is both precious and sacred, and that is why we must always be mindful of our nation’s history. I believe that, with today’s decision, the Supreme Court has overstepped its bounds, and now Congress must act.

“I, along with many others in Florida and across the country, have fought long and hard for the right to vote. We cannot sit idly by. Now is the time for Congress to stand up and be heard. We must not allow the clock to turn back on voting rights in this country.”